Brazilian libero Mario (far right, middle row) and Brazil are counting down to defending their FIVB World League and FIVB World Championship titles, when the competitions start on June 4 and September 24 respectively.

Sao Paulo, Brazil, February 8, 2010 – Brazilian libero Mario says he is hoping that 2010 will be equally as good, if not better than his debut season in the canary yellow last year when the world No. 1 picked up the FIVB World League and FIVB World Grand Champions Cup titles in the space of five months.

The 27-year-old also revealed plans to take over the main role of libero for the world champions when legendary Brazilian player Sergio eventually retires, something he has discussed with the MVP from last year’s World League.

“2009 was a great season, so this year I already hoping we can equal last year’s achievements and even improve them,” said Mario, speaking to Terra in Brazil. “It was the year I won another title with [Brazilian club side] Cimed, then went on to be selected for Brazil before winning the World League and Grand Champions Cup in Japan.”

And as for plans to fill Sergio’s shoes when the 34-year-old does eventually retire, Mario is trying not to focus on it. “Sergio has always been an idol, and I’ve always wanted to train with him. I get a lot of advice from him, but my first aim was to get into the squad, and now it is to stay there.”

The 1.92m tall libero also added that the return from abroad of a number of international players to the national Brazilian competition – Superliga - will make Brazil stronger still, and help develop the game further in the country.

“I think their [the players] return is a very big gain for the sport in Brazil, to help develop it further,” Mario said. “Volleyball is the second most popular sport in the country and stadiums are almost always full. The demand has increased, and it is great for encouraging beginners to the sport.”

Brazil is counting down to defending its FIVB World League and FIVB World Championship titles, when the competitions start on June 4 and September 24 respectively.